UPDATE: President Obama reacts to deaths in Colorado

Posted:
Friday, July 20, 2012 9:03 AM EDT

FORT MYERS, Fla. (AP) -

President Barack Obama says the tragic movie theater shooting in Colorado that left 12 people dead is a reminder that life is fragile. He says the event "reminds us of all the ways that we are united as one American family."

In Florida for a campaign swing, Obama asked for a moment of silence Friday and focused his shortened remarks exclusively on the tragedy.

Obama and challenger Mitt Romney both moved to pull down negative advertising. Romney, too, was scheduled to comment on the shooting during his own campaign appearance in New Hampshire.

Obama said the shooting underscores how "our time here is limited and it is precious." He said Friday should be devoted to prayer and reflection.

President Barack Obama is cutting short a Florida campaign swing following the deadly Colorado movie theater shooting.

The rampage has shaken up the presidential race. Obama issued a statement calling the shooting "horrific". Republican Mitt Romney said he also was dismayed.

Informed at dawn at his hotel near West Palm Beach, Fla., Obama plans to speak about the tragedy at a shortened campaign appearance in Fort Myers. He canceled plans to speak at a rally later near Orlando.

Aides say Romney also will speak about the shooting at an event in Bow, N.H.

Press secretary Jay Carney says Obama spoke by phone with FBI Director Robert Mueller and counterterrorism chief John Brennan and has been told there does not appear to be any "nexus" with terrorism in the attack.

President Barack Obama says he is "shocked and saddened" by the tragic shooting in Colorado.

Obama and First Lady Michelle released the following statement regarding the massacre in Aurora, Colorado:

"Michelle and I are shocked and saddened by the horrific and tragic shooting in Colorado. Federal and local law enforcement are still responding, and my Administration will do everything that we can to support the people of Aurora in this extraordinarily difficult time. We are committed to bringing whoever was responsible to justice, ensuring the safety of our people, and caring for those who have been wounded. As we do when confronted by moments of darkness and challenge, we must now come together as one American family. All of us must have the people of Aurora in our thoughts and prayers as they confront the loss of family, friends, and neighbors, and we must stand together with them in the challenging hours and days to come."